Our view: Stocking fund's success is overwhelming

Posted: December 25, 2011 - 1:55am

Many children in our community today are having a merry Christmas because of the incredible generosity of you.

The $130,000-plus that was raised by the Empty Stocking Fund is more than last year. We are overwhelmed by your willingness to share with others. We knew this year would a tough environment in which to raise funds because the economic downturn has not let up.

The Record helped families who never needed help before.

For example, a commissioned salesperson, who saw his business fall off, had to quit his job because he could not afford the gas to commute to work. He continues to look for work. His wife asked the fund to help their children have Christmas.

Many single parents asked for help for their childrens’ Christmas and for food. A young mother who just completed her GED asked if we would help her two-year-old daughter because she wanted her to have toys to play with. The mother couldn’t afford any last year.

An 81-year-old woman, who lost a lot of weight after a heart attack, said she needed clothes that would fit. She had bought some on her limited income but could not afford any more.

Every year it is apparent to us that many in our community are just trying to make ends meet and the gap widens as expenses exceed income. That leaves little room in the budget for a holiday celebration.

But, not everyone who applies is helped because some applications just don’t add up. We rely on a network of social service agencies to ensure our applications get a thorough review in addition to our in-house scrutiny. We provide vouchers to our recipients for Publix Supermarkets and Kmart where those businesses also scrutinize the carts to ensure only food, clothing and children’s toys are purchased. That’s our assurance to you that only those who truly need the help get it.

“We are very fortunate to live in a community of generous people who help those in need,” said Publisher Ron Davidson. “We appreciate all who contributed, including those who contributed via volunteer efforts, as well. Publix Supermarkets and Kmart have been great partners. This effort would not be possible without their support and the help of their staffs. The Empty Stocking Fund is something we’re very proud to be a part of.”

As we reflect on all the households helped that will have a happy holiday season, there is no question that ours is a giving community.